Welcome to the next episode of ‘Me, Myself, and Isla – Lifting the Lid on Loneliness’. Today we’re talking to Craig Leith, Senior Lecturer at Robert Gordon’s University in Aberdeen, and Subject Leader of Hospitality, Tourism, and Events.

Craig got in touch back in January when I very first put the idea of my podcast out there, and suggested he speak about his PhD research on the area of Solo Tourism, and the relationship with loneliness. I was over the moon, this was a great angle that I’d never thought of, but before I knew it, it was April, and we hadn’t managed to chat yet. So we tried again!

Within minutes of talking to Craig I knew he’d be great. His passion for solo travelling is infectious, but he is also very in tune with the emotional and practical reasons why solo travelling could be great for some people, and trickier for others, and those is covered with kindness and humor in this podcast.

I’ve always been nervous about the thought of being a solo tourist, I think I’ve felt embarrassed or worried that I might be judged, but Craig’s stories, enthusiasm and great advice for anyone considering a solo adventure, make me think I could give it a go.

I felt super energised and full of good vibes after this chat with Craig, and I really hope you feel the same.